Shopping isn’t as torturous as it sounds… You just have to know how to do it right.
Here are five great tips on how to make your shopping experience painless:
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1) Write it down
The first thing you need to do before you head to the mall is make a list. If you don’t, you might leave with everything except for what you actually need. Put that XBOX controller down, stay away from your local record store, and get your butt out of the tech aisle. Don’t become another statistic (to impulse spending, that is). Do yourself a favor and write down what you want, whether it’s on paper, in your phone, or even a text message to yourself. Need a nice new shirt? Write it down – and then check out Lord and Taylor where you can get Rogue State Painted Denim Shirt with free shipping!
2) Browse the web
If you don’t care for the mall, or simply don’t have time to head to the store, online shopping is a good idea. Tip: a new trend is happening now which is Wooden Rings by Urban Designer, so if you’re interested, make sure to get it! Even better, online stores typically have lower prices than mall stores! Go ahead and Google the item before you go to find the best deal. Chances are, many of your favorite stores offer exclusive online-only sales (and merchandise!). See? Painless.
3) Loyalty programs rock!
Shopping especially sucks when you’re paying full-price! There are almost always coupons available for your favorite stores, so before you shop, be sure to check out ads to see what’s on sale. Also, take a peek at coupon sites for exclusive deals, sign up for reward programs at the retailers you shop at the most (Free stuff!?!), and don’t forget to look at the clearance merchandise! I’m In is a great coupon website to search for deals for all of your favorite stores!
4) Try it on
I know, trying stuff on is no fun – but it has to be done! Whether you are shopping for clothes, shoes, accessories… No matter what, take the time to test it out. Of course, this is much easier while you’re in store, because you can make the cuts before you even leave the fitting room. If you opt for online shopping, do try on your new merchandise as soon as possible. If it doesn’t work, retailers typically offer free shipping to return merchandise.
5) Ask for help
It’s no secret that guys hate to ask for help. You don’t like being told what to do, you don’t like to ask for directions, and you definitely don’t “need” fashion advice. Right? Get over it. If you’re looking for a specific item at the store, don’t hesitate to approach the first sales associate you see. They are trained to know about the products they sell, they can tell you what merchandise is and isn’t available, and they can offer you suggestions on similar or even complementary items. Looking for Nike’s? The associates should be able to help you – no questions asked!